| Synopsis: |
This text proposes targets and indicators for action, at European, national and local levels, to monitor the effects of alcohol consumption on health and evaluate the effectiveness of specific interventions. Addressed to policy-makers, the text covers both measures to reduce overall levels of consumption and measures aimed at reducing high-risk behaviour. Suggested areas for targets include: levels of alcohol consumption; adverse effects on health; alcohol-related social problems; and alcohol-related economic costs. The authors also propose nine strategic areas to prevent and manage the harm done by alcohol consumption. These range from practices in the alcohol and hospitality industries, through support of community action, to the use of the criminal justice system. Proposed actions are supported by a list of 37 policy options used in various European countries, and country-specific data on changes, between 1980 and 1990, in total alcohol consumption and standardized death rates for external causes, road traffic accidents, and chronic liver disease and cirrhosis of the liver. |